Three decades after military opened doors to women, they remain at courts’ mercy

Source– The post is based on the article “Three decades after military opened doors to women, they remain at courts’ mercy” published in The Indian Express on 18th November 2022.

Syllabus: GS3- Security

Relevance: Women empowerment

News- The article explains the issue of women induction into armed forces.

What is the position of higher courts on this matter?

The Supreme Court yesterday directed the Centre and the Indian Air Force to consider granting Permanent Commission to 32 retired women Short Service Commission officers based on their suitability with the purpose of giving them pensionary benefits.

In 2010, Delhi HC directed the government to give permanent commission to women serving in the army.

What are steps taken by the government for induction of women into the army?

Women have been inducted into the army since 1992.

Government has followed a piecemeal approach for induction of women. It is taking decisions at various times on whether girls can enter the National Defence Academy, Sainik Schools or RIMC.

What are the issues related to women induction into the army?

Women have been allowed in combat in the Air Force, but we are yet to see women in combat roles in the army and navy. All career options in the armed forces are not offered to them.

They are not considered fit for many roles in the armed forces. There are doubts on their capabilities for core work of the army that is traditionally performed by males.

There still exist many gaps. Court has also not given full judgment about women’s induction into the army.

What is the way forward?

The military should consolidate its position on the matter. The policymakers need to go back to the drawing board and decide on all the cases as a whole rather than having to address the issue piecemeal.